Mary Sprague: Works in Clay & 'A Little Wooden'

Duane Reed Gallery presents the latest work of artist Mary Sprague. Exhibition opens THURSDAY, September 12th with a reception that evening 5 – 8pm. The exhibition will run through October 26th. Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10-5pm.

In her latest work, Mary Sprague explores her urge to build, construct, and repair a history. This sculptural exhibit includes both works in clay and wood and found object sculptures. With the same momentum as her legendary markmaking technique, "Sprague uses clay with such fluidity that it gives the appearance of paint…Sprague allows her clay to function naturally, and doesn't resist its character: it slides, collapses and suffers the effects of gravity." (Andrea Powers Schankman). Using intimately precious objects saved from her and her family's childhoods alongside her iconic animal figures, Sprague explores the essence of play, the wonder of rediscovery, and the poingancy of nostalgic memory. Trained in an era of abstract expressionism, Sprague has been able to combine color and form from multiple eras to suit her unique caricatures of the domestic American scene. Her playfully absurdist tendancies and commentary on figurative truths culminates in this body of work in which subjective impressions tease our sense of mystery and meaning.